Hi im extremely interested in the Lutheran church. But i ran into a problem. Whats the difference in LCMS and ELCA? If you have a vid or can direct me to information. I really would appreciate it. Thanks!
Thank you for your question! Below is a URL address to the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod website. Here is a succinct and accurate summary of the three chief differences between the ELCA and LCMS. In answer to your question. The benchmark difference comes down to Confessional Subscription. The official teachings of Lutheranism are documented in the Book of Concord, or the Lutheran Confessions, written by Blessed Dr. Martin Luther and his associates. The LCMS subscribes to the Lutheran Confessions "because" (Latin quia) we believe it to be a faithful exposition of the objective teachings of Holy Scripture. The ELCA, on the other hand, subscribes to the Lutheran Confessions "insofar as" (Latin quatenus) they happen to agree with Scripture. The latter is a far less confident approach which allows their church body to modify or dismiss certain teachings of Lutheranism based on their subjective interpretation of the Scriptures. I encourage you to visit a Lutheran Church. Whether ELCA or LCMS, they should have a Book of Concord for you to check out. If you happen to agree with what you read, then an LCMS church has the greater chance of upholding these teachings. The Lutheran Confessions are also online at bookofconcord.org. I encourage you to read the Small Catechism first, then the Augsburg Confessions. These are the most foundational Lutheran Confessions. As for other helpful resources. The LCMS is committed to historic Christian teaching and practices, such as Closed Communion. A helpful book explaining the topic is "Eucharist and Ministry in the First Four Centuries" by Weiner Elert. A less cumbersome read would be "The Hammer of God," a stunning work of fiction by the late Bishop Bo Giertz. Most Lutheran pastors have read this book, and you should not have difficulty finding it if you visit a Lutheran Church. In Christ www.lcms.org/about/beliefs/faqs
@@cypresslutheranparish1827 Thanks so much! Does these churches specify. I don't want to contact the wrong one thinking I'm talking to a LCMS. Lol Thank you!
Most welcome. Yes, usually you can see on the church's sign or web site whether LCMS or ELCA. We belong to Lutheran Church-Canada (LCC), which is in fellowship with the LCMS.
